The Co-operators Group Ltd. is adding the Fédération des coopératives d’alimentation du Québec to its membership group. The Co-operators is now owned by a total of 33 Canadian co-operatives and like-minded organizations.

The FCAQ is a food co-operative whose 62 members operate throughout the province of Quebec. With combined revenues in excess of $450 million, the co-operatives operate 67 stores that employ more than 2,500 people. The 62-member organizations have a combined membership of 125,000 individuals.

“Joining the membership of the Co-operators will not only benefit our members, but will strengthen our ties with the Canadian co-operative sector as a whole,” said Marcel Pichette, CEO of the FCAQ. “We are very pleased to be joining an organization that is committed to co-operative values and that gives back so much to our communities.”

In 2005, the Co-operators invested more than $3.3 million in Canadian communities through contributions to support emerging and expanding co-operatives, charitable organizations and community safety programs. The organization also disbursed $10.6 million to its members through the member loyalty program.

“The FCAQ brings a new perspective and strengthens our membership,” said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of the Co-operators. “This addition will create new business opportunities, and the FCAQ will enjoy the benefits of participating in a strong, growing financial services co-operative.”